The Cabernet Sauvignon grapes for this wine were hand picked from our Lake Cynthia Vineyard on October 5, 2007, almost 3 weeks earlier than the harvest the previous year. The grapes were picked, delivered to the winery, hand sorted and crushed on the same day. The juice was on the skins for about 30 hours. The wine was then aged, sur lie in neutral French barrels for about 6 months prior to bottling. The 2007 season started with a relatively dry winter, and a warm early spring resulting in bud break about two weeks earlier than normal. The growing season was marked by warm sunny days and cool nights with virtually no rain from April 15 until harvest (which is quite typical). A significant heat spike in the third week of September resulted in a fast sugar buildup and an earlier than usual harvest. However, night-time temperatures in the low 40s and high 30s from September 23 until harvest resulted in good acidity and a marvelously balanced wine.

“An exceptional blend of light fruity black cherry, strawberry and raspberry flavors together with a hint of black current that Cabernets are known for, combine with soft, supple tannins and crisp, balanced acidity to provide a unique Rose’ style wine with clear structure. It is rare to find such a combination of fruit, spice and depth of color in a Rose'. This is a wonderful year-round Rose’ for sipping or for serving with lighter foods. It, like the 2006 vintage, raises the bar for all American Rose’ wines. Unlike many Rose's which are the by-product of a vintner’s efforts to drain off juice to concentrate other wine, Kitchak Cellars picks these grapes and makes this wine with the sole purpose of making an exceptional Rose. A brilliant success." Said wine critic Jon Glas at a Minneapolis wine tasting, "One of the best domestic rose wines I have ever tasted... Cherry, rose petals, spice, subtle oak and vanilla are components of the wine. It has some tannins present and could be enjoyed with a steak. Dry in style and a really interesting wine. 90 pts. 5/12/2010